Jan Leeming's Controversial Comments on Parenting Spark National Debate

Jan Leeming, an 84-year-old former BBC newsreader, ignited a national debate after suggesting that parents should train their children "like dogs" to ensure proper behavior in public settings. This controversy arose following her comments about a birthday lunch at The Pig at Bridge Place, near Canterbury, where she claimed her experience was marred by a "screaming child." Leeming's remarks, made on social media and during an interview on Times Radio, emphasized that children should be taught to behave socially acceptable in public spaces, similar to how pets are trained.

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Leeming's comments were prompted by her experience at a restaurant where she felt the behavior of other children disrupted her dining experience. She criticized parents for allowing their children to act as "little princes and princesses," suggesting that many children are not adequately disciplined in social settings. Leeming's comparison of children to dogs, while intended to highlight the need for social training, was met with backlash and support alike.

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In response to the uproar, Leeming later clarified her remarks, stating that her comments were misunderstood and expressed regret for referencing dog training. She acknowledged that her comments were made in jest and noted, "What I should have said was 'children should be trained to be socially acceptable before they are let loose on the public.'" This backtracking did not quell the debate, as many parents and commentators weighed in on the appropriateness of her statements.

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The reaction to Leeming's comments was polarized. Critics, including Canterbury mother Alex Edwards, argued that children learn social behavior through inclusion in various settings, asserting that the responsibility lies with parents to choose appropriate venues for dining. Edwards expressed that her family was unfairly targeted, stating, "The suggestion that we are 'oblivious parents' is unfair and frankly offensive." Many parents echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that children should be allowed to learn and grow in social environments.

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Conversely, a significant portion of the public supported Leeming's perspective, with some arguing that her observations reflect a broader societal issue regarding children's behavior in public. Supporters claimed that the lack of discipline in children leads to disruptive behavior that affects others.

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While Leeming's comments received substantial attention, opinions on the matter varied widely. Some individuals criticized her for being overly dramatic, suggesting that children’s behavior must be tolerated as part of their learning process. Others pointed out that if a restaurant offers a children's menu, it implies a welcoming environment for families. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing debate about the expectations of child behavior in public spaces and the responsibilities of parents.

Daily Mail

• “She said 'many of them are just allowed to run riot', adding that she sees 'children with their feet on chairs that people have got to sit on'.” — Jan Leeming

Daily Mail

• “She told KentOnline: “Children learn social behaviour by being in social settings.” — Alex Edwards

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• “What I should have said was ‘Children should be trained to be socially acceptable before they are let loose on the public.” — Jan Leeming

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The discussion surrounding Jan Leeming's comments underscores the complexities of parenting in public spaces and the varying expectations society holds regarding child behavior.

The Guardian